Violation of safety rules should be dealt with strictly: Minister

Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi today said that any violation of safety rules should be dealt with strictly under the Dam Safety Act and the Disaster Management Act. He chaired a high-level meeting with the officials of the Public Works Department, Jal Shakti, Electricity Board, SDRF, Revenue and other departments to review the preparedness for the monsoon. He assessed the current situation and district-level readiness and issued necessary directions regarding the preparedness to deal with any adverse situation.

He said that since large dams were located in Mandi, Kullu and Kangra, the Deputy Commissioners of these districts should keep a close watch on the situation. He directed the State Disaster Management Authority to respond quickly in the event of an emergency situation.

The minister was informed during the meeting that heavy rainfall had been reported in Kangra and Mandi districts and full preparations had been made. The required machinery had already been deployed and 234 roads affected by rain and landslides in the state were being restored. The roads were likely to be reopened by Monday evening while all national highways were open to traffic, he added.

The Revenue Minister said that the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Board (HPSEB) had reported that 968 transformers had suffered damage due to adverse weather conditions and the restoration work was currently in progress. Similarly, 23 drinking water schemes under the Jal Shakti Department had been affected and efforts were being made to restore them promptly to minimise inconvenience to the public. Flashfloods were reported from Sarpara in Rampur of Shimla district but no loss of life was reported, the meeting was told.

Negi urged tourists to follow weather advisories and avoid venturing near rivers and streams. All Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) in the state had been directed to remain vigilant.

The minister said that budget provisions had been made for the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and full preparedness with equipment deployment must be ensured.

Himachal Tribune